Pavia, Lombardy, Italy
Dr. Cristina Cereda is a genetic researcher recognized for her contributions to neurodegenerative and pediatric rare diseases. She earned her Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of Pavia, building strong expertise in molecular and genetic research. Her work focuses on understanding the genetic basis and pathogenesis of ALS and related disorders, as well as advancing newborn screening through innovative molecular approaches for early detection and intervention. Currently Director of the Regional Laboratory for Newborn Screening, Dr. Cereda leads programs that enhance early diagnosis and care for infants with metabolic and genetic disorders. She has secured major research grants from national institutions and private foundations and actively contributes to international scientific collaborations and mentoring. Driven by a commitment to translational research and patient impact, Dr. Cereda continues to bridge science, clinical application, and innovation in genetics.
Dr. Cereda serves as the Director of the Regional Laboratory of Lombardy Newborn Screening. In this role, she leads critical programs that facilitate early diagnosis and intervention for various diseases in newborns. Her strategic direction has led to the implementation of cutting-edge screening protocols, ensuring accurate identification of at-risk newborns and timely interventions.
I'm doing basic and applied research studying the pathogenic mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases with a focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Recently I opened a line of research relating to Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Responsible for the genetic diagnoses, performed by the Molecular Biology section of the laboratory, inherent all the neurological diseases diagnosed in the institute.
I worked in the Experimental Neurobiology Laboratory doing research activities (writing and deployment of research projects, relationships with other scientific groups) and coordinating functions among the other figures in the laboratory and managing the scientific projects funded.
Referee in the neuroscience area for research projects for Young Scientists
ALS Expert in the working group of Regione Lombardia's Sanitary Commission. This activity led to the drafting of Tables for the assessment of motor neuron diseases and in particular of ALS and in the field of civil disability and in the application of such criteria. These criteria has been published on Regione Lombardia - Bollettino Ufficiale N°52 – 22 dicembre 2008